WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today on the announcement that more than 7 million Americans enrolled in private health insurance plans through the federal and state-based marketplaces created through the Affordable Care Act by the March 31 open enrollment deadline:

“Today’s news that over 7 million Americans have signed up for private health insurance plans during the Affordable Care Act’s open enrollment season confirms that the law is working. Millions of Americans now have access to quality, affordable health care through federal and state marketplaces, through Medicaid, and, for young Americans, through their parents’ plans. The Affordable Care Act also goes beyond providing access to health coverage; it also provides security to millions of Americans who are benefiting from important patient protections and cost-saving measures.

“Since enactment of the Affordable Care Act, Americans with pre-existing conditions cannot be denied coverage. Insurers can no longer charge women higher premiums than men for the same plans, and seniors are saving money on prescription drugs. At the same time, the Affordable Care Act has slowed the growth in health care costs and is contributing to deficit reduction.

“That’s why it’s even more disappointing that Republicans have scheduled their fifty-second vote to repeal or undermine the Affordable Care Act. I hope Republicans will see today’s enrollment numbers as cause to abandon their obsession with undoing health care reform and instead work with Democrats to make sure the law benefits every American.”